BCPL is committed to providing the best possible services to all patrons and making our buildings accessible.
Although the Main Library in Burlington and the Scheben Branch in Union already have wheelchairs, they are now available at the Hebron Branch, Florence Branch and Walton Branch. Visitors can use the wheelchairs throughout our wide-aisle buildings as well as our outside property, such as the Storywalk at our Hebron location or the patio at the Walton Branch. To make visits even easier, most locations have automatic doors, and elevators are available at our multi-floor locations. Stop by the front desk to sign a waiver and borrow a wheelchair. Don’t forget to provide feedback through our survey!
Accessibility at BCPL goes beyond wheelchairs. Curbside Pick-up is available at Main, Scheben and Florence, while drive-thru service is available at Hebron and Walton. If you prefer to come inside and browse, accessible parking is available at every location.
Our collection also offers a variety of accessible formats. Patrons can choose from large print books, children’s read-alongs, Playaways and books on CD, and only a few oversized books are stored on lower shelves. Our digital collection through Libby expands access even further with ebooks and audiobooks. Users can customize text, fonts, brightness and narration settings to fit their needs including the OpenDyslexic font.
In addition to collections and building access, BCPL continues to expand accessibility features and services throughout our branches. The Hebron Branch has a height-adjustable computer desk that can be raised or lowered with the press of a button, and accessible computer stations are coming soon to the Florence Branch. For patrons with hearing aids or cochlear implants, the Walton Branch offers hearing loops to assist during programs, with plans to expand the service to additional locations. Every branch also has translation devices to improve communication with non-English-speaking patrons. And of course, a phone call in advance to discuss additional accommodations is always welcome.
BCPL also offers sensory-friendly spaces and resources. The Main Library features a Sensory Room equipped with a hammock swing, sensory floor tiles, fidget toys and more. The room accommodates up to five people, or one family, for a 30-minute reservation. To use the Sensory Room, visit the second-floor desk. Additionally, the Walton Branch has a family-friendly restroom with an adult changing table and sensory-friendly blue lighting. Some locations offer sensory bags to borrow while visiting the Library.
BCPL also offers programs designed to create welcoming and supportive spaces for all members of the community. Coming soon, the Walton Branch will host a Memory Cafe, providing a comfortable place for individuals experiencing memory loss and their caregivers to connect. The Scheben Branch also hosts Thrive Together, a program where adults with disabilities and their caregivers can build friendships, share experiences and enjoy time together in a welcoming environment.
For patrons who are unable to visit the Library in person, BCPL’s Outreach Department helps bring library services into the community. The team delivers library materials to homes and provides community stops throughout Boone County with the Library Bus and Mobile Boone Innovation Lab (Mobile BIL). For assistance, contact the Outreach Team at outreach@bcpl.org or call 859-292-3394.
Accessibility also extends to BCPL’s digital services. BCPL complies with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines to help ensure our website, social media and mobile app are accessible to people with visual and auditory disabilities.
Do you have ideas on how BCPL can become even more accessible? Let us know!
